by Yve Goodwin

Created on: May 11, 2011

The outlook for the F/W 11 men’s fashion season is one of renewed classic designs and stylish variety.   Gone are the days when the typical preppy trends, such as button-down shirts, horizontal striped sweaters and chino trousers ruled the roost in everyday menswear.  The new upcoming designs have been revitalised into fresh, up-to-date styles with a classic twist.  Colour will still be the order of the day.  Vibrant brights, rich hues and strong neutrals act as important parts: each having their own unique place as the vital backdrops to contemporary style elements.  

Basic long-sleeve tees are spiced up with fun and artistic ink splatters, illustrations and prints; when worn tucked into pants, clean and polished looks are created.  Classic crew neck styles provide a sleek silhouette; while the average fisherman’s styles no longer prevail.  Instead, dark tonal stripes appear as fashionable substitutes. Intarsia sweaters splashed with fanciful motifs are among the key wardrobe pieces this fall season.  They’re the perfect knitwear to use as a fashionable starting point when building a classic wardrobe with a modern flare.  Layers are transformed into luxurious affairs with the resurgence of soft suiting, cosy belted shawl collared cardigans and modern marled sweaters. For the younger set, colour-block hoodies in boxy cuts reign supreme. The return of the raglan sleeve also makes a grand appearance in graphic v-neck designs: in order to capture the genuine collegiate sweatshirt look. Classic outwear designs are bolder than ever with patterned or border-striped toggle coats and patch pocket jackets creating eye-catching looks. 

Fashion themes will play an important role in the form of outdoor apparel during the F/W 11 season. Colourful sleeping bag quilts line the inside of watchcoats for a ruggedly modern charm.  Metallic down coats mixed with chambray shirts and slim pants that are worn inside boots create a casual, city chic style that’s made for walking.  Classic military designs have been revamped into overstated silhouettes; as box plaid wool parkas stylishly replace the standard buffalo check.

Last but not least, the devil is in the details; as the style components have taken on a strong new masculine appeal.  Interesting garment construction accents come into effect:  with the use of simple and stylish basics, such as rolled hems and unfinished seams leading the charge.  As a result, basic tees and sweatshirts look hip and cool, while club collar shirts and slim tailored pants evolve into sleekly dressed up, contemporary styles.

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